Extended Day

I have been working at St. Swithun’s since January 2017, as a teaching assistant in Years 5 and 6. I joined Sunlight and Twilight in January 2018. I enjoy working with children of different ages and abilities. I have plenty of experience working in different schools in different roles. Before working in education I studied at Portsmouth University, and gained a degree in Interior Design. In addition to my studies, I have worked in mental health, obtaining Level 5 in Management in Business Skills Sector. I have First Aid and Food Hygiene certification. English is not my first language, I also speak Russian, Estonian and French. When I am not at work I enjoy reading, drawing, travelling and taking my 3 dogs on trips around UK with the challenge to visit as many Country Parks as possible.

Matt McDonald-Woods:

I began working at St. Swithun’s Catholic Primary School as a lunchtime supervisor in 2014. I joined the Sunlight/Twilight team in September 2017, having previously worked in an after school play scheme. I have completed my Food Hygiene and Safeguarding training. Outside St. Swithun’s, I am a Cub leader and help with other groups within the Portsmouth District; you may also spot me cycling around Portsmouth as a food courier! My hobbies include photography and skateboarding.

Justyna Waszak:

I have worked at St. Swithun’s Catholic Primary School since September 2015, as a teaching assistant in Years 5 and 6. As my native language is Polish, I also assist pupils who have English as an additional language. I have many years’ experience working alongside children and young people, in nurseries, Sure Start Centres, afterschool clubs and play schemes. Outside St. Swithun’s I enjoy knitting, reading and cycling. Most recently, I have adopted an orphaned cat.

Marlene Carter:

I started assisting with the Early Years Team and working as a Midday Assistant in 2016. I have an NVQ in Childcare, Food Hygiene and Paediatric First Aid. I love working with the children and being part of the team. Outside school, I like spending time with my family.

Tanya Hearne:

I joined the Sunlight/Twilight Team in November 2017. I am currently studying a level 2 Business Administration course at Highbury College. I enjoy working with children and have worked with children from the ages of 2- 11 years in various pre-schools and schools in Portsmouth. I have qualifications in Early Years, Teaching Assistant, First Aid and IT. My hobbies range from reading historical novels, baking, cooking and creating my own greeting cards. I also love spending time with my family going on long country and seaside walks.